We know what happens when you hear the words “water shoes.” The first thing that comes to your mind is an image of dorky, awkward, cloth sacks for your feet that your mom made you wear on family vacations. Lucky for you, fashion moves quickly, and it didn’t leave water shoes behind. 

Now there are tons of options for the best water shoes for men depending on your lifestyle, whether you’re someone who needs traction for constant outdoor adventuring or you just need a little extra stability. 

We’ve compiled a list of the best water shoes for men with different specifications and tech to fit a wide range of different needs. Keep reading to see our selections and find the pair that’s right for you. Strap on these shoes and get exploring.

Different activities often require different specifications and tech to achieve the best results, but with Under Armour’s Men’s Kilchis Shoes you can rest assured that you’re not sacrificing performance for versatility. These shoes may have a similar look and construction to a regular sneaker, but are designed for much more. 

Made with a contoured midsole and footbed for rapid drainage, as well as abrasion and water resistant overlays, these shoes are quick-drying for maximum comfort and breathability, and their gripping sole will make sure you have the traction you need for whatever adventure you may face. 

These shoes are best to pair with your technical gear or beach attire – especially helpful when your hunter instincts kick in while gathering mussels for dinner (just us dreaming of steamed mussels on the beach?). 

Sizes available: 8-14 | Colors: Black, green, gray, white, + | Activity: Running, hiking, boating

Adventuring is rarely easy, so why not take advantage of a pair of shoes that does some of the work for you? That pair of shoes is Merrell’s Men’s Hydro Mocs. This easy slip on and off shoe is designed to carry you wherever you need to go, and the ventilation holes on the top of the shoe allow for maximum breathability. 

Pair these with the heel strap, contoured arch-supporting design, and EVA material, and you have a pair of the best water shoes for men that will make you feel like you’re not wearing anything on your feet at all.

Seen on countless celebrities as of late, don’t sleep on these shoes even for your quick grocery runs or weekend antiquing. To complete the look, pair these with a pair of straight cut, loose jeans, a dad hat, plaid/ t-shirt and vest to live your true midwest fantasy. 

Sizes available: 7-15 | Colors: Black, beige, green, blue, + | Activity: Hiking, swimming, kayaking

Crocs have come a long way since the irreverent classic clog, and their Men’s LiteRide 360 Pacer Sneaker are the best proof of it. These are the best water shoes for men who need multi-terrain footwear but are reluctant to give away their favorite pair of sneakers. 

Like classic Crocs, these Crocs alternatives have built in ventilation ports on both the top of the foot and the side for breathability as well as water drainage. With a lace up construction for an adjustable fit and a thick, cushioned sole, these sneakers are designed to provide you maximum comfort no matter where you go. 

If you’re a fan of the ever-classic dad shoes (ahem, like me) then please stop, click and shop. 

Sizes available: 2-17  | Colors: Black, white, beige, red | Activity: Hiking, walking, boating

While the Croc Classic Clog may get a bad rep from internet trolls, there’s no denying that these shoes get the job done and unless you’ve been living with your head under a rock you know these bad-boys are back with a vengeance. 

These comfortable clogs are made of a lightweight but durable rubber material that protects your foot while making sure you don’t get weighed down, and constructed with holes on the top for maximum water drainage and breathability. 

With their adjustable strap that can convert for an extra layer of back of the heel support, these shoes allow you to customize your wearing experience. The best part? Their weight of only a few ounces means they easily float, so you can have peace of mind if one goes rogue during your kayaking or rafting adventures. 

Sizes available: 4-17  | Colors: Black, brown, pink, yellow, + | Activity: Boating, kayaking

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the best quality and protection in your outdoor gear. That’s where DLGJPA Men’s Lightweight Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes come in. These sneaker-like shoes are crafted with hydrophobic mesh fabric and an anti-slip outer sole, so you don’t have to worry about comfort and safety in and out of the water. 

Pair that with an easily adjustable elastic lace, as well as a heel tab that makes taking them on and off easy, these are the best water shoes for men on the go who are also on a budget. 

We like to think of these as the car-boat hybrid of shoes. Simple enough to pair with a casual outfit for brunch (open button-up shirt, plain tee and some colorful 5 inch shorts anyone?) and then still be ready for a game of catch at the beach after. 

Sizes available: 7-14  | Colors: Gray, black, yellow, blue, +  | Activity: Hiking, boating, walking 

When you’re hiking through tough conditions, you need a no-slip, no-nonsense shoe that can take you where you need to go. Look no further than The North Face’s Men’s Skagit Water Shoe. 

These low-top, sneaker-like shoes are constructed with The North Face’s trademarked EXTS outsole, so you can be confident that your shoes have the best grip no matter the terrain. 

These shoes work even if you’re only looking to pair them with your top-notch gorp-core while you pick up bagels and coffee for breakfast. Our favorite is a light puffer jacket or vest with some soft joggers – if you’re in need of some inspiration. 

With a removable footbed insert for comfort, quick-drying mesh as the upper fabric, and a built-in midsole drainage system, these are the best water shoes for men that want to hike, no matter your favorite trail conditions. 

Sizes available: 7-14  | Colors: Black/blue, gray/yellow | Activity: Hiking

If you’re looking for the best water shoes for men to not only protect your feet, but add to your performance, then look no further than Nike’s Swim Fins. These water shoes are designed with your performance in mind, with a shorter than average fin that provides just-as-powerful kicks without getting in your way. 

Their open toe construction allows for breathability out of the water, while the buoyant, rubber material is quick drying. Pop on these fins and let them help shave seconds off your time. 

Ok, yes what you’re thinking is correct, these are not the most stylish shoes. I would not recommend wearing these to meet your girlfriend’s parents for the first time. However, slap these bad boys on with your best swim trunks before challenging her brother to a race and you’ll be the true weekend warrior.

Sizes available: 2XS-XL  | Colors: Black/blue, black/orange | Activity: Swimming

When you’re spending a day on the trails and outdoors, the last thing you want on your mind is the possibility of your feet hurting at the end of the day. That’s where Land’s End’s Men’s Wide Water Shoes come in. These best water shoes for men are as supportive and protective as they are durable and quick-drying, giving you the best of both worlds. 

The EVA footbed is designed for maximum shock-absorption, so you can take these from the boat, to the beach, to the backwoods without a second thought. Add to that an easily adjustable pull-tab lace and a traction-increasing rubber outsole, you get the best of both worlds in comfort and performance. 

Personally I would pair these with a classic pair of chinos (shorts or pants, choose your own adventure) and a graphic tee to be ready for any situation. 

Sizes available: 8-13 | Colors: Navy, gray, black | Activity: Walking, hiking

The Land’s End Men’s Slip On Water Shoes have the classic, slim water shoe look combined with ultimate modern comfort technology. These closed-toe shoes are designed to hug the feet for a streamlined look and for optimal performance, while also providing a cushioned footbed for protection. 

Add to this an adjustable locking bungee ankle closure and an entirely polyester and mesh blend fabric, these slip-on water shoes are comfortable, breathable, and quick-drying all in one package. 

I would recommend keeping these close to the beach or as the perfect pair of dingy shoes as you motor back to the boat (if we could all be so lucky…no need to brag). 

Sizes available: 8-13 | Colors: Navy, gray, green | Activity: Swimming, boating, kayaking, walking

If you’re looking for a pair of water shoes to get you through the harsh conditions and strain of water sports, look no further than REI’s Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport Water Shoes. These low-top sneakers are slim-fit to provide the most natural movement possible while providing maximum support. 

Their FeelTrue rubber soles are as flexible as they are non-slip, so you don’t have to sacrifice movement for support and protection. With quick-dry lining and a midfoot strap for even more support, you can take your game to the next level with these shoes. I don’t have any better style options than a pair of board shorts and a life-jacket…c’mon it’s time to hit the waves. 

Sizes available: 8-13 | Colors: Black, navy, striped| Activity: Water sports

Just because water shoes have an emphasis on function, doesn’t mean that they can’t also be fashionable. Sea Star’s Beachwear Beachcomber Espadrille Water Shoes are here to strike the perfect balance. Made in a classic and stylish espadrille design, these shoes have the perfect resort wear look and feel. 

These shoes are made of a neoprene upper which has a rapid dry time of just 15 minutes in direct sunlight, so you’re guaranteed quick comfort both in and out of the water. The perfect pair to throw on before a last-minute getaway or impromptu beach day. Try out a pair of jorts, sunglasses and a solid-color tee to really complete the laid-back look. 

Sizes available: 8-13 | Colors: Black, navy, striped| Activity: Walking

Since Teva’s inception at the Grand Canyon in the 1980s, they’ve striven to bring comfortable and easy outdoor gear to all, so it’s no surprise that their Hurricane Drift Water Sandal is on this list as our pick for best waterproof sandal. Made of an ultra-light and buoyant recycled EVA material, these sandals keep you supported without weighing you down. 

With adjustable velcro straps and a thick, cushioned footbed, these sandals are the perfect upgrade to your normal cheap, paper-thin summer flip-flop. 

Ok, this is another one that might make you double take…but sandals are back with a fury like none other. Pairing these with corduroy shorts and an open button-up t-shirt will have your festival fits and mid-days swims game infinitely upgraded. 

Sizes available: 7-14 | Colors: Black, beige, green, gray, + | Activity: Hiking, kayaking

With the 3T Barefoot Max Water Shoes, the name says it all. With a minimalist three toe design, an ultra-grip sole, and zero heel lift, these shoes are designed for maximum mobility no matter what activity they’re taking you through. 

These shoes are made of 100% synthetic materials and an integrated drainage system, so you can depend on the quick-drying technology to keep you comfortable as soon as you get out of the water. 

Sizes available: 7-13  | Colors: Black/blue, black/yellow | Activity: Kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming

When you’re on the move during your summer adventures, you want a pair of shoes that can adapt to your surroundings as quickly as you do. That’s where Speedo’s Men’s Water Shoe Surfwalker Pro 3.0 come in. These classic slip-on water shoes have a streamlined look and fit so they don’t get in your way while you’re on the move, and their heel tabs make them easy to slide on and off.

The 100% neoprene upper is both stretchy and breathable, and allows for maximum comfort while they dry. Protecting your feet in the summer is no joke, especially if your going to be in and out of the water all day – if you want to take that as seriously as possible look no further. 

Sizes available: 7-11 | Colors: Black | Activity: Boating, kayaking, swimming

Since its founding in 1938, Columbia Sportswear has worked hard to produce quality sporting gear, so it makes sense that they would make this list somewhere. Columbia’s Men’s Hyper-Boreal Metro Boot is one of the best water shoes for men for serious hikers ready to conquer the toughest terrain. 

Their Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber sole of these boots provides a non-slip grip on slick surfaces, while their Techlite+ insole provides thick, shock-proof cushioning and stability to keep you comfortable on the toughest trail. 

Sizes available: 7-15  | Colors: Black, green | Activity: Hiking

What to look for when searching for the best water shoes for men

Occasion

Just like any performance gear, there’s a lot of things to consider when searching for the best water shoes for men. The first key element is occasion—shoes designed for different activities will have different specifics.

Water shoes designed for running will have a sneaker-like construction, water shoes designed for hiking will have a thicker fabric and more support, etc. The better you know what these shoes will be used for, the more fitting pair you can find. 

Traction

When you’re dealing with the slick surfaces that come from any kind of water sports, friction is your best friend (aka, the best water shoes for men, aka why you’re here). Comfort and style are pretty useless unless they can get you from point A to point B.

A key feature in testing whether or not a shoe has good traction is looking at the features of the sole. If the sole only has a few ridges, it probably won’t cut it. If the sole has deep cut teeth, then it will sink into and grip mud, rocks, etc. much better. 

Fabric

If you’re going in and out of the water frequently, you need to be sure you pick a pair of the best water shoes for men with the most durable fabric so you can use them longer.

Water does some serious damage and wears away thin materials like canvas and suede, so you’re going to want to steer away from anything not specifically geared to the outdoors. Some of the best materials for water shoes are Gore-Tex and polyvinyl chloride.